Stay in the loop

The best bookstores in Toronto don’t just have the hottest new fiction or that next volume of Game of Thrones you swore you’d read. You’ll also find quirky gems, some of the best staff in Toronto, and maybe even a cocktail or two?

Here are the best bookstores in Toronto.

1

TYPE Books

With imaginatively titled sections and a staff that includes writers in the Toronto scene, striking up a discussion here is definitely recommended. Across from idyllic Trinity Bellwoods on Queen, this is the perfect place to pick up a book to flip through in the sunshine.

2

BMV Books

With locations across the city including its notable sky blue outpost in the Annex, this behemoth bookstore sells books, music and video both new and used and is the most likely place to find something specific you’re hunting for.

3

Book City (Danforth)

Also with multiple locations, Book City is a bit smaller but still packs in the charm. Tear through shelf after shelf of paperbacks for that perfect vacation novel.

4

Mabel's Fables Children's Bookstore

This whimsically decorated children’s bookstore on Mount Pleasant is likely where many of the current readers of Toronto cut their teeth on some of their first ever favourite books.

5

Glad Day Bookshop (Church)

Toronto’s oldest queer bookstore now has an out and proud location right on Church. Not only do they have a huge selection of LGBTQ writing including plays and poetry, they also have a snack bar with cocktails and host many regular events.

6

Ben McNally Books

On Bay, this place bills itself as “Toronto’s most beautiful bookstore” and that just might be totally accurate. If you want to feel like Belle from Beauty and the Beast prancing around pillars, arches and gleaming wooden shelves filled with literature, be their guest.

7

Another Story

This Roncesvalles fixture may be a humble little neighbourhood shop but it’s full of delights, not to mention the conscience they have in terms of the books they choose to stock.

8

The Sleuth Of Baker Street

If you’re a diehard for crime and detective novels, head to this bookstore in Leaside. They stock titles from Canada, America, Britain and beyond.

9

Bakka Phoenix

Harbord Village’s bookshop would have to be this sci fi emporium just a stone’s throw from U of T residences. Nerds, find your aliens, cyborgs, spaceships and all things awesome here.

10

Swipe Books

At this design-based bookstore at 401 Richmond that also sells funky design objects, you might find such titles as “How To Write an Email” or “Branding in Five and a Half Steps.”

11

Ella Minnow Children's Bookstore

This kids bookstore in the Upper Beaches sells reading material and toys for adventurous kids, such as puzzles and anthologies like “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls.”